Chester,
Pa. – Widener University is proud to congratulate alumnus Brent Staples, ‘73,
for winning a 2019 Pulitzer Prize in Editorial Writing. Staples earned this
prestigious award for his distinguished editorials “written with extraordinary
moral clarity that charted the racial fault lines in the United States at a
polarizing moment in the nation’s history,” according to the Pulitzer Prize Board.
“On behalf
of Widener University, I extend sincere congratulations to Brent Staples on his
remarkable accomplishment,” said Widener President Julie
E. Wollman. “We are very proud to have contributed to the foundation for
Mr. Staples’ exceptional career in journalism. Mr. Staples’ dedication to
composing morally and ethically rich and challenging work serves as an example
for every student at Widener as we focus on developing habits of civic
engagement and a commitment to social justice.”
Staples
enrolled in the university in 1969 when it was then known as Penn Morton
College. In 1973, he earned a bachelor’s degree in behavioral science and
graduated with cum laude honors. After earning a doctoral degree at the
University of Chicago, Staples briefly returned to Widener for one summer as a
visiting scholar of psychology before embarking on a career in journalism.
His
journalism career began as a staff reporter for the Chicago Sun-Times in the
early 1980’s. Shortly after, he went on to a position at the New York Times
where he has served in various capacities, including editor of the book review
and an assistant editor for metropolitan news. In 1990, he joined the Times’
editorial board, a position he still holds today.
For
decades, Staples lent his voice as a journalist and an author to identify the
truth about racial justice and culture in America. His work captures universal
themes that consistently challenge preconceptions and stereotypes and remains
an important influence on American politics and culture. He credits Widener
with giving him the opportunity that enabled him to achieve his professional
successes.
The oldest
of nine siblings, Staples grew up close to the university in Chester,
Pennsylvania. As a young man, Staples connected with Widener Professor Eugene
Sparrow who provided mentorship and guidance at a critical point in his life.
Staples attributes the encouragement from Sparrow and support from the Project
Prepare program for his academic success at Widener.
“We are
very proud to call Brent Staples an alumnus of Widener University’s College of
Arts and Sciences,” said David Leaman, dean of the Colleges
of Arts and Sciences. “We all congratulate him on his tremendous success in
winning a 2019 Pulitzer Prize and for shining a spotlight on critical issues of
racial justice in America through his writing.”